Waikoloa Vacation Rental Management

After years of managing condos on the Big Island of Hawaii we have decided to start one of the first blogs on the Big Island focused solely on Hawaii vacations. If you have an upcoming vacation you will want to check out our recommended activities and helpful information.

We also decided to take it a step further to allow anyone that has vacationed in Hawaii to comment. We included general topics for each complex as well as activities on the Island.

This area is dedicated to anyone posting about any areas that they feel may benefit future Hawaii vacationers as well as future vacationers using it to get questions answered they may have about their Hawaii Vacation.

Recent Posts

Kau Kau Depot at Waikoloa Village

July 28th, 2011

One of the greatest attributes of The Big Island of Hawaii is the food you can find along the way. There are quite a few local style food places that offer great breakfast and lunch on a daily basis but some are a bit further than others. Luckily for those staying on the Waikoloa Beach Resort or at Mauna Lani Resort; Waikoloa Village is just ten to fifteen minutes up the hill. There are a number of local food options available to everyone at Waikoloa Village. A recommendation is “The Kau Kau Depot”.

Having been around for just over one year, the Kau Kau Depot offers Kona Coffee, homemade pastries made daily and great local style food for everyone. From great breakfast burritos offered daily to Mahi Mahi Lilikoi Eggs Benedict (available Fridays and Saturdays), to sandwiches, loco moco and much more; this local style eatery is sure to please the entire family.

Locally owned and operated, the proprietor is on site on a daily basis. His main focus is to provide great casual service, good food at great prices and plenty of Aloha.  This is a great place to go to  to get off the resort and experience something different or make a pit stop on the way to Waimea, Mauna Kea or even Kiluea to perk up your morning. They offer a casual dining area, catering and carryout drive up window to make it easier for anyone on the go.

The Kau Kau Depot also recommends the homemade French Dip made from fresh roast beef or the homemade salmon patty burger.

Live Aloha, support local family operated businesses and enjoy what the big island, Waikoloa Village and the Kau Kau depot have to offer.

The Kau Kau Depot can be reached at (808) 728-3197.

If you are looking for a place to stay on the Big Island of Hawaii try a vacation rental at Waikoloa Beach Resort.


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July 2011 at Waikoloa Beach Resort

July 13th, 2011

There is never a dull moment on the resort with the planned activities and exhibits hosted by the Kings Shops. Other than Mondays, there is something planned daily to entertain couples, families or anyone looking for something out of the ordinary.

Every Tuesday night, the shops offer local music to both residents and visitors. For the month of July; you can hear John Keawe, Music with an Island Touch from 6-7pm.

Every Wednesday, you can visit the Kings’ Shops Farmers Market from 8:30am-2pm. See local Organic produce, talk to the local vendors and bring the family to see something special.  On Wednesday nights from 6-7pm, come hear some traditional Hawaiian sounds from either Hawaiians Unlimited or Kunia Galdeira.

There are also some great family activities such as Daily Koi Feeding at 9:30am across from the Louis Vuitton store and Hula Fridays from 6-7pm.

A family favorite is Hula and Polynesian Dance Fridays from 6-7pm at the shops. Come treat yourself to rare displays of culture and movement under the Hawaiian sky.

If you are looking for an accommodation try one of our Waikoloa Beach Resort vacation rentals.

The Floor Plans of Kolea at Waikoloa Beach Resort

July 8th, 2011

Kolea at Waikoloa Beach Resort has many different floor plans for everyone depending on their needs. The villas range in size from two bedrooms, two bathrooms to three bedrooms, three and a half baths with much larger floor plans. All villas have full Kolea Beach Club access as well as the same level of on site personal, service and quality.

3 bedroom/3.5 bathroom Kolea Villa

This particular gem is the largest and most opulent floor plan that Kolea and Waikoloa Vacation Rentals have to offer at Waikoloa Beach Resort. It has 2,147 square feet of living space. The enormous lanai, with an ocean view allows for great family BBQs. This would be perfect for those looking for the ultimate luxury vacation rental.

3 bedroom/3 Bathroom Ground Floor Kolea Villa

These villas are 1,716 square feet, offering plenty of personal space and a lawn area directly off the lanai. This location is perfect for parties with small children. This will give everyone more space to run off their Big Island excitement with safety in mind.  Several “front row” villas off easy access to the Kolea Beach Club from the lanais.

3 Bedroom/2 Bathroom Kolea Villa

These particular villas offer space, functionality and cost consideration for those looking for Kolea luxury on more of a budget. These 1,554 square feet villas are perfect for the family looking to stay together and play together.

2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom Kolea Villa

These villas offer more of a cost consideration with a bit less space. Either a small group or family can enjoy the 1,270 square feet and amenities offered on the resort. The quality is not diminished in anyway, only the size and price.

4th of July 2011 at Mauna Lani Resort

July 2nd, 2011

The July 4th holiday is going to be an eventful extended weekend on in the Waikoloa and Mauna Lani Resorts. As previously discussed, there are quite a few events taking place.
In addition to the Waikoloa resort festivities, the Mauna Lani Resort and Bungalows is hosting multiple events beginning July 1 through the 4th, 2011.

The next offering is for all of those golfers out there. In celebration of the Mauna Lani Resorts 30th Anniversary, The Francis H. L’i Brown courses are offering specials on both rounds of golf as well as Merchandise.  Beginning July 2nd through the 4th, 2011; golfers will be able to take advantage of both 30% off all morning Green Fees as well as Golf Merchandise. Call (808) 885-6655 with any questions.

On July 4th, the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel is celebrating Turtle Independence Day from 10:30am to 12:00pm. Dating back to 1989, the hotel has raised baby Turtles or Honu. They are raised in the Salt ponds at the hotel and released every July 4th when they reach a certain maturity. This year is no different; the turtles that have reached a certain size and age will be release at the waters edge in front of the hotel.  A parade will transport the baby Honu to the beach followed by their release. This annual event honors the turtles and helps educate visitors about the endangered animal. Visitors can enjoy an educational experience as well as a July 4th BBQ.

Call (808) 881-7911 for more information.

If you are looking for a vacation rental near these activities, check out our villas at Mauna Lani Terrace.

Waikoloa Beach Resort Bike and Scooter Rentals

June 25th, 2011

Looking for alternative transportation? There is another option, “ride it Island Style”. Try Big Island Motorcycle Co. and experience their Motorcycle, Scooter and Bicycle Rental Service at Waikoloa Beach Resort. This will offer different perspectives of the island and will be great family fun for all. For families with younger children, bicycles are available by the hour or the day. Their prices are $10 per hour, $25 per day for adults. Children can rent them for $5 per hour, $15 per day. All bike rentals include a helmet and bike lock. This will allow families to venture out and be less concerned about safety and security. For scooters, they offer rentals for $20 per hour if it is better to stay in the area. For a more complete experience; they offer half and full day rates, $45 and $60 respectively. All rentals include a helmet and bike lock. Drivers must be 18 years old or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Riders are welcome to ask about multi-day discounts for an extended rental period. For life more on the edge, Big Island Motorcycles has that’s right….Motorcycles. This will give any rider more freedom to travel the island in style. They offer both Metric and Harley Davidson for those who love the open road. The Metrics are available for $100 for a half day, $140 for a full day. Harleys are rented for $120 for a half day, $160 for a full.  Prices include full insurance, helmets and riding jacket. GPS units are available for an additional price. Drivers must be over 25 years old and licensed to ride on two wheels. Enjoy the ride, be safe and most of all; smile and have fun. Big Island Motorcycles can help create memories for a lifetime.

Call (808) 886-2011 for more information.

If you are looking for a place to stay, try one of our Waikoloa Beach Resort vacation rentals.

Is Hawaii Worth the Effort and Expense?

June 17th, 2011

There are many places to travel and sometimes, perhaps staying closer to home is the best plan of action. Everyone in Hawaii realizes how far away they are from the rest of the United States or other international destinations. It is actually something the state and the people take great pride in. It is the furthest landmass from any other land mass on earth. That can mean two things. The first, it can be inconvenient to visit. The second, there is something worth seeing.

Simply put, Hawaii is special. The Culture for one; is like nothing else that can be experienced anywhere else. It’s so strong and so alive. When in Hawaii or on an island, there is no doubt this is someplace very different and extremely special.
Why would someone travel here? Is it the Weather or the Ocean? Could it be the Aloha? This Aloha can only be described as one big hug that lasts the duration of a vacation.
Creating Special Moments with family and friends is something that can happen on a daily basis, producing memories for a lifetime.

Helicopter tours overlooking waterfalls, sunset boat rides, swimming with the dolphins and hiking into the creator are not only possible, but recommended to enhance the overall experience.

Even if there is time for one or two excursions during the course of a vacation; the memory will last for many years to come.
The Aina, or land and it’s offerings of amazing food and foliage. From night blooming jasmine to coconut trees; visitors are surrounded by beautiful breathtaking views and smells that will not soon be forgotten.

It is recommended to try the islands hand crafted lili’koi butter or some of the local favorites found no where else such as Pork Lau Lau served with Poi to enhance the flavor.
Come experience the richness the islands with loved ones and family. Please visit and see
what everyone on the island lives on a daily basis.

Vocabulary will change with phrases such as Hawaii no ka oi (Hawaii is the best), Mahalo Nui Loa (Thank you very much) or Mahalo nui loa na ho’olaule’a me la kaua (Thank you for celebrating with us).

Each one of them has two main characteristics’ happiness and positivity. All of which can be heard right here on Hawaii.

Get the Most Out of a Hawaiian Vacation on a Budget

June 13th, 2011

With Hawaii being the most expensive vacation destination in the United States, many people find it hard to find the means to travel to Hawaii in the current economy. Here are some helpful tips to make your Hawaii vacation more feasible.

First, by staying a vacation rental rather than a hotel you can save money on the accommodation cost as well as food costs. At the beginning of any guests’ arrival, perhaps just off the plane; it is recommended to go directly to Costco depending on the time of day everyone lands. For a family or four all three meals can be prepared in the vacation rental for an average of $120/day. The average cost for a family of four to dine at a hotel in Hawaii is just over $234/day.

Second, finding a great happy hour in the area can also be a good option. Pupus (appetizers) and alcohol prices typically drop 25-50% for that short period of time. Some restaurants also offer an “early bird” menu which features a variety their most popular entrees at discount prices.

The money saved can pay for surf or stand up paddling lessons. Helicopter or zipline tours are sure to create and maintain some smiles. This could really bring about some amazing family moments. There is nothing like flying through the air to create a stronger bond within the family.

At the end of the day, the greatest things about Hawaii are free; it just comes down to everything else needed to enjoy those times.

Waikoloa Vacation Rentals offers some of the finest vacation rentals on the Big Island of Hawaii and can surely find something to fit any vacationer’s budget. Their private concierge service can help to find some of these restaurants that offer great specials or to do some pre-arrival grocery shopping.

4th of July 2011 at Waikoloa Beach Resort

May 31st, 2011

Waikoloa Beach Resort takes their 4th of July very seriously and 2011 will be no different…are you ready?

On Monday, July 4 the Waikoloa Beach Resort and the King’s Shops host the ‘Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race and 4th of July extravaganza’. Proceeds from the race will be donated to Cerebral Palsy of Hawaii and Big Island Schools. You could win an opportunity to stay in the Presidential Suite at the Hilton Waikoloa Beach Resort along with other great prizes from some of the other sponsors and local businesses. Live entertainment will be there from 10am to 6pm and the event will feature local artists, face painting, balloons, a watermelon eating contest and much more. This is a fantastic activity for families.

The Queens Marketplace will host another event with great family activities throughout the day starting at 11am along with an 8pm finale of fireworks over the Waikoloa Bowl at the Queens’ Gardens. Live entertainment will continue after until 9:30pm. Proceeds will go to the Food Basket, our local food bank. Canned goods donations will be accepted to benefit the same organization. Bring the family, show your support to the community and enjoy yourself!!

The US Airforce Band will also be playing at the Waikoloa Bowl starting at 6pm, doors open at 5pm. Bring a chair and blanket and enjoy this once a year event under the Hawaiian sky.

There is quite a bit going on throughout the island. As the distances can be quite large between the events, we decided to let you know what was happening in the areas of Waikoloa Beach Resort and Mauna Lani.

If you are looking for a place to stay check out our Waikoloa Beach Resort vacation rentals.

Waikoloa Beach Resort June 2011 Events

May 25th, 2011

In addition to the full schedule of activities at Waikoloa Beach Resort, there will be some points of interest throughout the month of June on the Resort.

With Fathers day around the corner, you are welcome to “Spoil your dad at Queens’ Marketplace”. Purchase anything from the shops, spending $25 or more (total receipts must add up to at least $25) and you will be eligible to win gifts from the stores, restaurants and accommodations. This promotion ends 6/17.

On Saturday, June 18 comedian Tommy Davidson is performing at the Hilton Waikoloa Village Grand Ballroom. Tickets are on sale for $25 for general admission and $50 for VIP table seating.

If you are looking to grab a quick bite to eat if you are venturing out for the day or are simply wanting something simple, the Queens shops does offer a food court. This offers anything from Asian inspired dishes to burgers and sandwiches along with some local favorites. This is an economical way to feed the family for the afternoon.

One of our favorites is Sansei’s; they serve seafood, steak and sushi nightly from 5:30p-10p. Every Wednesday is Lobster Night!!!

Kolea Vacation Rental Market Update

April 4th, 2011

2010 was one of the best years the Hawaii tourism industry has recorded in years. With the current economic state, along with the increase in tourism, many vacationers are choosing vacation rentals for their accommodations versus other alternatives, which fares well for Kolea.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority reported an increase in visitors to Hawaii in all four quarters of 2010 versus 2009. The percentage increase grew as the year progressed, leading speculation that there will be continued growth in Hawaii for 2011.

Hawaii Visitors 2009 vs 2010

Looking at the vacation rental industry in Hawaii it appears the industry enjoyed the growth of Hawaii tourism plus more. Instant Software, the most widely used vacation rental reservation software nationally, reported a substantial increase in vacation rental reservations in 2010 versus 2009 in Hawaii. While Hawaii tourism grew close to 10% in 2010, the vacation rental occupancy grew 20% in 2010. This growth could be attributed to the economy, enhanced marketing efforts by vacation rental companies nationally, or Gulf of Mexico issues as well as many other factors. Along with the increased occupancy there was an increase in average daily rate by 5%, which confirms that the increase was not due to “deep discounting” by vacation rental homeowners and agencies.

Kolea achieved better growth than the vacation rental trends depict for Hawaii. Occupancy, average nightly rate, and average length of stay all increased in 2010. Waikoloa Vacation Rental Management, the largest vacation rental management company within Kolea, reported a conversion rate of 88% in 2010. This was a significant increase from 2009. Conversion rate is defined as the percentage of renters who paid the advertised rate. They attribute this to having less dependency on “vacation rental by owner” related marketing sites, which are highly competitive and have very low conversions. Also having a substantial increase in repeat visitors attributed to the higher conversion rate.

Many speculate the growth will continue well into 2011. Group travel to the Big Island of Hawaii is significantly up in the first quarter, which historically has led to higher single or family traveler airline rates during that timeframe. This displacement in the first quarter will lead people to put off their travel until later dates in the year, which would give the Big Island nice growth in the following quarters of 2011. Although the closing of Kona Village due to damage from the tsunami was an unfortunate event, it has affected Kolea in a positive way. With Kona Village being the only all-inclusive resort on the Big Island of Hawaii, the majority of the guests that were scheduled to stay there are choosing vacation rentals as their alternative. Waikoloa Vacation Rental Management was able to arrange for Kona Village to recommend Kolea to their guests as a viable alternative, which not only favored well for them, but also for the Kolea community as a whole. Within a few weeks of the tsunami, Waikoloa Vacation Rental Management was fully reserved at Kolea many weeks leading to substantial overflow for other management companies and homeowners.

Waikoloa Vacation Rental Management reported substantial growth within Kolea for the first quarter of 2011 and currently has more than 500 nights reserved in 2012, which is depicting more great growth for Kolea as a vacation rental community.